It’s typically recommended to clean your residential gutter systems at least once every six months. One of the best times to do this is is right before winter. Failing to clean your gutters before winter hits can put your home at risk of damage due to the buildup of snow alongside dead leaves and debris in your drainage systems. If your gutters are clogged with debris, freezing temperatures and precipitation can cause ice dams, which can in turn cause significant damage to your home.

Why clean your gutters before winter?
Cleaning your gutters before winter hits may not be as fun as decorating your home for the upcoming holiday season, but it can definitely keep your home from suffering from drainage clogs. Just from rainfall alone, the average American roof will collect over 600 gallons of water. And that’s the average American roof, not the average Seattle roof. It isn’t only water these roof gutters collect either.

When debris builds up in your gutters, it can cause clogs which keeps the water from draining successfully from your roof. Should water fail to drain, it can cause water damage along your foundation, walls, and attic.

What’s more is that when that trapped water freezes, it will expand inside your gutters and crack the material. Overnight, you will need a gutter repair or gutter replacement.

How to clean gutters before winter hits
If you’re not exactly sure how to clean gutters as a new homeowner, don’t worry. You’re not alone. Here is a general step-by-step guide you can follow to figure out how to clean gutters this fall so your roof will be properly prepared for the winter season:

1. Clear out large debris
   The first step in gutter cleaning is to get rid of the large debris in your gutters. Put on a pair of heavy-duty gloves and use either a gutter scoop, pressure washer, or leaf blower to help get rid of big clogs. However, if you do use a pressure washer or leaf blower, be sure to wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from the debris.
2. Do an inspection of your gutters
    After you’ve cleared out the majority of the debris from your roof gutters, do another visual inspection. Do you see any cracks or leaks? These types of damage can cause problems later on during the winter and are best to fix or replace before it gets too cold.
3. Have a professional take a look
   Depending on the age and the damage that’s occurred over the years on your gutters, you may need a replacement gutter installation. Because winter can often make your roof more slippery, be sure to have a professional residential gutter installation service come by to determine whether or not your gutters are in good enough shape to withstand another winter.

Winter can take a toll on many homes, which is why it’s so important to ensure your roof gutters are well prepared in advance. Therefore, be sure to check your gutter systems for debris, cracks, or any other damage before the air turns too chilly.